Martha Stewart is a household name when it comes to DIY home improvement and gardening. Her iconic empire has made her a go-to source for everything related to home décor, cooking, gardening, and more. In recent news, she has made headlines for her historic spot on the cover of the 2023 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue, making her the oldest woman to grace the cover in the publication's history.
But before she became a swimsuit model, Martha has been known for her love for gardening. In fact, she has a book called "Martha's Flowers: A Practical Guide to Growing, Gathering, and Enjoying," which is a comprehensive guide for anyone who wants to start their own garden. Here are some of Martha's tips for DIY home gardening.
First and foremost, it's important to evaluate your space. Determine how much sunlight and shade your area gets, as well as the quality of soil. This will help you decide which plants are suitable for your garden and what type of soil amendments you need to add.
Another important aspect of gardening is choosing the right plants. Martha recommends selecting plants that are native to your area because they are more adapted to the local climate and require less maintenance. She also suggests planting a mixture of annuals and perennials to ensure that your garden stays vibrant all year round.
When it comes to planting, Martha emphasizes the importance of spacing. Crowded plants can lead to disease and pests, so it's best to give each plant enough space to grow. Additionally, proper watering is crucial for a healthy garden. Martha recommends watering deeply and infrequently, rather than giving your plants a light sprinkle every day.
Weeding is another important part of gardening. Martha suggests using a hoe to remove weeds before they have a chance to grow too big. She also recommends mulching to suppress weed growth and retain moisture in the soil.
If you're looking to attract pollinators to your garden, Martha recommends planting flowers such as bee balm, coneflowers, and black-eyed Susans. These plants are not only beautiful but also attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to your garden.
When it comes to garden design, Martha suggests using a color scheme that complements your home's exterior. She also recommends adding height to your garden by using trellises or planting tall plants such as sunflowers and hollyhocks.
Martha also emphasizes the importance of maintaining your garden. This includes deadheading flowers, pruning shrubs and trees, and fertilizing regularly.
In addition to gardening, Martha is also known for her DIY home improvement projects. She has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to painting, woodworking, and home décor. She even has her own line of home improvement products, including paint and furniture.
One of Martha's DIY home improvement tips is to use paint to update old furniture. She suggests using a high-quality paint and primer to ensure a smooth finish. She also recommends using a paint sprayer for large projects.
Another tip from Martha is to use wallpaper to add interest to a room. She suggests using a bold pattern on one wall to create a focal point. She also recommends using wallpaper to line the back of bookshelves or to cover a ceiling.
Martha is also an advocate for home security. She suggests installing motion-activated lights and cameras to deter burglars. She also recommends using smart home technology to control your home's security system remotely.
In conclusion, Martha Stewart is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to DIY home gardening, home improvement, and home security. Her expertise has made her a household name, and her tips and tricks can help anyone improve their home and garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Martha's tips can help you create a beautiful and thriving garden.
